Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.
4. In the same skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the beef and tomato sauce. Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
8. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the ziti mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the ziti.
10. Bake the ziti for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
11. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!

The dish Baked Ziti has its origins in Italian-American cuisine. It typically consists of ziti pasta, ground beef or sausage, tomato sauce, and cheese, often mozzarella and Parmesan. While its precise origin is unclear, it's part of the broader tradition of Italian pasta dishes adapted and popularized by Italian immigrants in the United States. Baked Ziti combines the flavors and ingredients of traditional Italian pasta dishes with the American love for hearty, cheesy, and baked comfort foods.